HELPFUL HINTS

By Heloise

Posted: March 3, 2014 at 2:04 a.m.

DEAR READER: Here is this week’s Sound Off:

“While I do recycle, it annoys me that bills come with so many advertisements. These are a waste of trees and money, and I have to be the one to recycle them. Not to mention the advertisements that come in the mail. Many times, thesame advertisements are in the newspaper.” - A Reader, via email

DEAR READER: Many readers feel as you do. We try to recycle as much as possible, but sometimes there is only so much one can do. As far as the advertisements, not everyone gets a newspaper, and not everyone gets the same bills. Just keep doing the best you can.

DEAR READER: Other uses for clothespins:

Use to deflate pool rafts by pinching the valve open.

Clip coupons together to hold them while shopping.

Use as a paperclip.

Clip extra place mats to hangers to store.

Mark a page in a cookbook.

DEAR HELOISE: Would you please repeat the hint for removing old appliques from the bathtub?

Dorothy S., Carteret, N.J.

DEAR READER: The decals usually can be peeled off with a little effort. Place some foil over a decal and pour on boiling water. Let it sit for five to 10 minutes. Try to pry up a corner, then put some prewash spray or lubricating oil beneath that spot and let it sit for a while. You should then be able to gently peel it off. If needed, you can use a hard, plastic spatula or other such tool to help remove it. Just be careful not to scratch the tub.

If there is glue residue left, use a glue-removal product, or sprinkle the spot with cornmeal, then use a nylon pad to scrub away the residue. It might take some elbow grease, but you should be able to remove it all. Clean and rinse the tub.

DEAR HELOISE: I’ve recently attended two weddings. At one, guests were given sparklers and lighters when the couple was ready to leave. Guests lined either side of the walkway, and the couple ran to their waiting car.

At the other, guests sent bubbles full of good wishes as they exited.

Julie S., via email

DEAR READER: Two alternatives to the rice-versus-birdseed question. The bubbles are pretty, but please try not to get them on the bride’s dress, as some dresses are silk and difficult to clean.